Old Colony Realty: A Vacation Rental Company Serving Cape Cod and the Islands

What Old Colony Realty offers vacation renters

Old Colony Realty is a property management and vacation rental company based in Orleans, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod's Lower Cape. The company rents furnished homes, cottages, and condominiums across Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket to visitors looking for short-term stays. Their inventory ranges from small one-bedroom cottages to larger multi-bedroom homes, many with direct beach access or waterfront views.

The company handles the full rental process: listing properties, managing bookings, collecting payments, and coordinating check-ins and maintenance. Renters contact Old Colony directly through their website or by phone to browse available properties, check dates, and reserve a home. The company has been operating on Cape Cod since the 1970s and maintains a physical office where staff can answer questions about specific properties and neighborhoods.

Key Takeaways

• Old Colony Realty manages vacation rentals across Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket, with properties ranging from one-bedroom cottages to large family homes.
• You can search available properties and book directly through their website or by calling their Orleans office for personalized help with property selection.
• Most properties are furnished and include utilities, though specific amenities and pet policies vary by individual home.
• The company handles check-in logistics and maintenance during your stay, so you have a local contact if issues arise.

How to find and book a property through Old Colony

Start by visiting Old Colony Realty's website and using their search tool to filter properties by location, number of bedrooms, dates, and price range. The search results show photos, a full description of each home, amenities, and the nightly rate. You can also call their Orleans office directly to speak with a staff member who can recommend properties based on your needs—whether you want a quiet cottage, a home near restaurants and shops, or a place with a private beach.

Once you find a property you want, you reserve it through the website or over the phone. Old Colony collects a deposit to hold the reservation and the balance is typically due before your arrival. The company will provide check-in instructions, parking details, and the contact information for the property manager who oversees your rental. Many renters find it helpful to call ahead if they have questions about the neighborhood, nearby beaches, or local restaurants.

Properties across three popular vacation destinations

Old Colony's Cape Cod rentals span the entire peninsula, from the quieter towns of the Lower Cape (Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet) to the busier commercial areas of Hyannis and Dennis. Each area has a different character: the Lower Cape offers more natural beaches and smaller-town feel, while the Mid-Cape towns have more restaurants, shops, and family attractions. Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket properties appeal to renters seeking island getaways with ferry access and distinct island communities.

The company's website lists which properties are available for your specific dates, so you can compare neighborhoods and decide where you want to stay. Some renters return to the same property year after year, while others use Old Colony's inventory to explore different parts of Cape Cod and the islands across multiple trips.

What to expect regarding amenities and house rules

Most Old Colony properties are fully furnished and include basic utilities (electricity, water, heat). Many have air conditioning, though not all—a detail worth confirming when you book, especially for summer stays. Kitchens are typically equipped with appliances and cookware, allowing renters to prepare meals. Linens and towels are usually provided, though some properties require renters to supply their own or pay a linen fee.

Pet policies, parking arrangements, and occupancy limits vary by property. Some homes allow dogs or cats for an additional fee; others do not allow pets at all. Check the property description carefully before booking if you are traveling with animals. Minimum stay requirements also differ—some properties rent by the night year-round, while others require a weekly minimum during peak summer season.

Seasonal rates and booking windows

Cape Cod and island vacation rentals operate on a seasonal pricing model. Summer (roughly June through August) is peak season with the highest nightly rates and the shortest availability. Spring and fall shoulder seasons offer lower rates and more open dates. Winter rates are significantly lower, though some properties close seasonally or require longer minimum stays during off-season months.

Popular properties book months in advance during summer, so renters planning a July or August trip should search and reserve early. Spring break, Thanksgiving week, and Christmas holidays also fill quickly. If you have flexible dates, booking a shoulder-season trip or a winter getaway can mean lower costs and easier availability.

Contact and location information

Old Colony Realty's main office is located in Orleans, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod. You can reach them by phone to discuss properties, ask about specific neighborhoods, or get help with your reservation. The company's website includes their phone number, office hours, and an online contact form for inquiries.

If you are planning a Cape Cod or island vacation and want to work with a local company that knows the area well, Old Colony's long history on Cape Cod and their direct office presence means staff can answer detailed questions about neighborhoods, beaches, and local attractions that a national vacation rental platform might not provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book through Old Colony's website or can I call to reserve?

You can do either. The website allows you to search and book independently, but calling their Orleans office lets you speak with someone who can recommend properties based on your preferences and answer questions about specific homes or neighborhoods before you commit.

What happens if something breaks or stops working during my stay?

Each property has an assigned manager or contact person whose number is provided at check-in. Call them to report maintenance issues, and they will arrange a repair or send someone to fix the problem. Most companies respond to urgent issues (no heat, plumbing problems, appliance failures) within a few hours.

Are there cancellation fees if I need to change my dates?

Cancellation policies vary by property and season. Review the specific policy for your rental before you book—it will be listed on the property description. Call Old Colony directly if you need to modify your reservation after booking; they can sometimes work with you depending on how far in advance you cancel and how easily the property can be rebooked.

Can I bring my dog to a rental property?

Some Old Colony properties allow pets for an additional fee, but others do not. Check the pet policy in the property description before you book. If you do not see pet information listed, call the office to ask which properties welcome dogs or cats.

What is the difference between renting on Cape Cod versus Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket?

Cape Cod offers more variety in price and property type, with easier car access and more commercial amenities. Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket require ferry travel, have a more exclusive island atmosphere, and typically cost more. Choose based on whether you want a quieter island experience or easier access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.